RCC President & CEO statement on essential retail and mandatory closures in Ontario

Although the mandatory closure of new categories of workplaces deemed “non-essential” in Ontario today affects many of our members, Retail Council of Canada (RCC) believes that we need to prioritize public health.  Short-term closures ensure the wellbeing of all Canadians, which in turn will help the retail sector rebound more quickly.  

Retailers that continue their operations, like grocery stores and pharmacies, will ensure they maintain the highest standards of health, safety and security for their employees, consumers and citizens.  For businesses categorized as non-essential, consumers will continue to have access to their products through their online platforms. 

By the hour, RCC continues to advocate strongly for retailers on financial, operational and human resources matters.  Our retail members, who represent over 45,000 independent, regional, national retail establishments across Canada, will be core to operationalizing that rebound.  Collaboration with all governments on support and relief measures to support our efforts will be key. 

Diane J. Brisebois, President and CEO, Retail Council of Canada